DUBLIN (Reuters) - Ireland play Brazil in an international friendly on Wednesday at Croke Park with a squad racked by injuries and yet to be given a full-time coach.
The match takes place as the Irish FA (FAI) comes under increasing criticism over the protracted process to find a coach to replace Steve Staunton whose contract was terminated in October after the team failed to qualify for Euro 2008.
Caretaker manager Don Givens told the FAI board on Sunday the work of the three-man panel he heads, which was appointed to find a coach, will be completed within 10 days.
Defender Richard Dunne said frustration was growing among players looking for closure over the issue.
"It's annoying most of all because nobody knows what is going on," Dunne was quoted by the Irish Times as saying.
Former England boss Terry Venables and Red Bull Salzburg's manager Giovanni Trapattoni are reported to be the main contenders for the post.
On the pitch, Ireland will be without winger Andy Reid and defender Joey O'Brien, while midfielder Steven Reid is doubtful with a knee injury.
However, striker Robbie Keane should play after recovering from an ankle complaint.
Defender Alex Bruce was called into the squad on Monday to provide cover amid reports that Andy O'Brien had retired from international football.
Givens said he had not been able to contact O'Brien to confirm his departure.
"He is somebody who can still contribute a lot to be thinking about retiring," Givens told reporters.
Last month, Liverpool right back Steve Finnan announced his retirement from international football.
Brazil also have their injury problems, hampering coach Dunga's plans to use the match to lay the foundations for the team that will compete at the Beijing Olympics.
World Player of the Year Kaka has suffered a knock on the left knee and forward Pato, who had been hoping to make his Brazil debut, twisted his right ankle, the Brazilian football federation said in a statement.
Their absences could provide an opportunity for Brazil's younger players.
"I want to fight for my place in the team that will go to Beijing," midfielder Lucas told Sao Paulo sports daily Gazeta Esportiva in an interview. "This call-up couldn't have come at a better time."
(Additional reporting by Gareth Chetwynd in Rio de Janeiro; Editing by Alison Wildey)
